Leo knew what society was capable of, and especially some of the more carnivorous members. He was sure Beth and been subjected to quite the inquest, and once again felt guilt for what he had put her through.
“There is also the matter of you discovering my secrets. Secrets I may add, that no one knows about.”
“And this unsettles you?” He eased her closer as another horse passed.
“Of course!” She glared at him. “I hardly know you.”
“I have promised to keep your secret safe. Having said that, I still believe you should tell Nick about your house and shop, Beth. He would applaud you, not censure you.”
“Perhaps.”
“Who are these children and why are you walking with them?” Leo decided on a change of subject.
She huffed out a breath, which was something, he realized she did often, he’d just never paid attention before.
“They are my butler’s children. His wife passed away last year. I take them out with me sometimes.”
“That’s very kind of you.”
“You make it sound like I do not know how to be kind.”
“I wonder how I managed that when I only said, ‘that was very kind of you’?” He gave her a smile; she, however, was focused on the children. “They are fine, Beth, rest easy.”
She looked beautiful as she always did, but something was not quite right. Why he thought this Leo was unsure, but still, it niggled at him.
“Is your aunt unwell?”
“No, as I have stated, it is merely the extra visits from well-wishers that has me out of sorts.”
He grimaced. “I shall call it off today if that is your wish?”
“It is not. But it is most annoying that now women, and some men, are paying me calls simply because I have managed to catch the hand of one of London’s most eligible bachelors.”
“Thank you.”
“It was not a compliment!”
“I stand corrected.”
“Do not make fun of me, my lord. I am in no mood for it.”
He looked down at her, studying the profile she presented him, the sweep of her long black lashes and arch of a feathered brow. Her cheeks were a soft line and her skin smooth and creamy. Small nose, and pink lips. His eyes lingered on that mouth, remembering how it had felt beneath his a few days ago. A curl had settled on one shoulder, and he resisted the urge to tweak it. He was suddenly very aware of this woman, and Leo realized she was beginning to disturb him, which was odd, considering he’d not been able to stand the sight of her before.
